David Stanton, Fine Gael TD for Cork East has welcomed today’s announcement that 10 clubs in East Cork will benefit from this year’s Sports Capital Programme, receiving a total of €328,600. Deputy Stanton was speaking as Minister for Sport, Michael Ring TD, announced a total of €40.5 million in new funding for 880 sports community projects nationwide. This represents a 33% increase on the last round of the Sports Capital Programme and brings the total figure granted since this Government came into office to €85 million.
“The announcement of €328,600 in Sports Capital Programme funding for the East Cork area is really great news. A total of 10 different clubs and organisations were selected for the 2014 round of funding which follows the previous round in December 2012.
Local clubs and groups to benefit from the funding include:
• Lisgoold GAA €93,000
• Cloyne Hurling & Football Club €65,000
• Midleton FC €58,000
• Youghal RFC €68,000
• Claycastle Pitch & Putt, Youghal €16,000
• Youghal Surf Lifesaving Club €10,000
• Aghada Community Council € 8,500
• Whitegate Rowing Club € 8,000
• 25th Cork Cobh Scouts € 1,300
• Ballymore Cobh Little Athletics € 800
“The last Government scrapped the Sports Capital Programme. Having reinstated this funding this Government is demonstrating that despite limited finances, we are determined to invest in local facilities, which are the lifeblood of communities across Ireland. Sports Capital funding assists clubs and organisations to build and to purchase equipment allowing them to offer better facilities to members and increase their membership.
“The more people we get involved playing sport, the better for the country’s overall physical and mental health. We particularly want to encourage more young people to get involved in sport, and start the good habits of a lifetime early. Aside from promoting good health, sport also has a valuable role in enhancing community spirit in towns and villages.
“Unfortunately, due to the huge demand for this funding, I am aware that not all clubs and organisations who applied were successful this year. I would encourage any clubs who have been disappointed to reapply for the next round of funding.
